The Washington Senators tabbed slugging outfielder Jeff Burroughs of Wilson High School in Long Beach, CA as the nation's number one pick. The Kansas City Royals made a record 90 selections in the June regular phase, including Al Cowens in the 84th round. Other notable players selected were Bill Madlock (Washington), Buddy Bell (Cleveland), Bob Boone (Philadelphia) and Ken Griffey, Sr. (Cincinnati).

Right-handed pitcher Dave Winfield was chosen in the 40th round by the Baltimore Orioles, but the St. Paul, MN native opted to attend the University of Minnesota. Pitcher Don Gullett was the first player to reach the majors. As the Reds' number one pick and 14th overall in the June regular phase, he joined the Cincinnati staff the following spring. Besides Griffey and Gullett, the Reds also tabbed pitchers Rawley Eastwick in the 3rd round in June and Ross Grimsley in the 1st round of the January secondary phase.[2]